pennlive
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Keeanu Benton was absent from Wednesday's practice due to an ankle injury, but he made a limited return on Thursday. That development bodes well for his availability in the upcoming matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Benton has emerged as a vital component of the Steelers' starting defensive front, particularly with Derrick Harmon sidelined on injured reserve because of a foot issue. Harmon is not eligible to return until after the team's bye week.
Following a breakthrough campaign last season in which he recorded 5.5 sacks, Benton has yet to match that sack total this year, but he has still commanded one of the highest double-team rates across the entire NFL. It came as little surprise that the Steelers opted to retain Benton, a promising young piece on the defensive line, as part of their future rotation. During negotiations, Benton expressed a desire to keep the process private and might have done so, yet the team's need for him to stay healthy remains paramount.
Should Benton be unable to suit up on Sunday, the Steelers would likely rely on undrafted rookie free agent Kevin Jobity Jr., along with Gabriel Rubio, who impressed in his first career action against the Indianapolis Colts.
Key Analysis
Benton's limited participation on Thursday offers a glimmer of hope for a Steelers defense that has been hit hard by injuries along the defensive line. With Harmon out until after the bye, Benton's presence is crucial to maintaining a stout run defense and generating interior pressure. His high double-team rate underscores the attention he draws from opposing offenses, which in turn creates opportunities for teammates. If Benton cannot play, the drop-off to inexperienced replacements like Jobity and Rubio could be significant, especially against a Buccaneers team that will look to exploit any weakness in the trenches.
Originally reported by pennlive.